US9314974B2 - Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures Download PDFInfo
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- US9314974B2 US9314974B2 US13/901,813 US201313901813A US9314974B2 US 9314974 B2 US9314974 B2 US 9314974B2 US 201313901813 A US201313901813 A US 201313901813A US 9314974 B2 US9314974 B2 US 9314974B2
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C69/00—Combinations of shaping techniques not provided for in a single one of main groups B29C39/00 - B29C67/00, e.g. associations of moulding and joining techniques; Apparatus therefore
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
- B29C70/04—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising reinforcements only, e.g. self-reinforcing plastics
- B29C70/28—Shaping operations therefor
- B29C70/30—Shaping by lay-up, i.e. applying fibres, tape or broadsheet on a mould, former or core; Shaping by spray-up, i.e. spraying of fibres on a mould, former or core
- B29C70/38—Automated lay-up, e.g. using robots, laying filaments according to predetermined patterns
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
- B29C70/04—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising reinforcements only, e.g. self-reinforcing plastics
- B29C70/06—Fibrous reinforcements only
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
- B29C70/04—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising reinforcements only, e.g. self-reinforcing plastics
- B29C70/28—Shaping operations therefor
- B29C70/54—Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations, e.g. feeding or storage of prepregs or SMC after impregnation or during ageing
- B29C70/541—Positioning reinforcements in a mould, e.g. using clamping means for the reinforcement
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29D—PRODUCING PARTICULAR ARTICLES FROM PLASTICS OR FROM SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE
- B29D99/00—Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
- B29D99/0003—Producing profiled members, e.g. beams
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
- B29K2105/00—Condition, form or state of moulded material or of the material to be shaped
- B29K2105/06—Condition, form or state of moulded material or of the material to be shaped containing reinforcements, fillers or inserts
- B29K2105/12—Condition, form or state of moulded material or of the material to be shaped containing reinforcements, fillers or inserts of short lengths, e.g. chopped filaments, staple fibres or bristles
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
- B29K2307/00—Use of elements other than metals as reinforcement
- B29K2307/04—Carbon
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/30—Vehicles, e.g. ships or aircraft, or body parts thereof
- B29L2031/3076—Aircrafts
- B29L2031/3082—Fuselages
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
- Y02T50/00—Aeronautics or air transport
- Y02T50/40—Weight reduction
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T156/00—Adhesive bonding and miscellaneous chemical manufacture
- Y10T156/10—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
- Y10T156/1002—Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina
Definitions
- the present disclosure generally relates to fabrication of laminates, especially those that are contoured, and deals more particularly with a method and apparatus for automated layup and forming of different laminate structures within a family of structures having common features.
- contoured composite fuselage barrel frame sections may be formed using a two-piece assembly comprising a channel section frame and a shear tie, mechanically fastened together. More recently, one-piece composite frame sections have been proposed that employ braided composites, however this fabrication approach is time consuming and labor intensive, and may result in a frame that is heavier than desired. The problem of fabricating one-piece frame sections is more difficult in high production rate environments where production flow times may be important to achieve manufacturing efficiencies.
- the disclosed embodiments provide a method and apparatus for producing different composite laminate structures within a family of structures having common features.
- the apparatus comprises an automated, reconfigurable composite forming system especially designed to form unidirectional pre-preg tape in the production of structural members, such as aircraft fuselage frames.
- the apparatus comprises a plurality of substantially identical forming modules linked together to form a single former that may be reconfigured to conform to a wide range of tools defining corresponding structural shapes.
- Each of the forming modules possesses the ability to locally adapt or transform to the unique design, shape or features of the tool.
- the apparatus may be employed to fabricate multi-ply composite frame sections having a Z cross-sectional shape, by laying up, forming and compacting each ply of the frame section.
- the plies are formed from an inner chord outwardly to an outer chord, sometimes referred to as a shear tie.
- Each of the forming modules adapts to the local shape of the tool.
- the modules are linked together in a manner to form a single former that adjusts to the entire tool. Different tool arc lengths can be accommodated by adding or removing forming modules. It is not necessary that the forming modules exactly match the total arc length of a tool in those cases where the structure is contoured.
- the apparatus employs an adaptive control system based on a generic structural shape profile of structures within a family of structures.
- the adaptive control system forms each ply of the structure based on a combination of force feedback and positional control.
- Each forming module has two servo axes and employs force feedback on one of these two axes at a time.
- the use of force feedback is dependent upon the area of the structure being formed.
- the feedback switches back and forth between the two axes. Switching between the two axes is controlled by the adaptive system and is determined by generic shape parameters of the structure being formed. Reliance on a generic motion profile allows the apparatus to form any of a multiplicity of unique structures, ply-by-ply without the need for NC (numerical control) programming.
- the apparatus is easily scalable to fabricate structures of different sizes within a family of structures by adding or removing forming modules, and arranging the modules to substantially match corresponding tool shapes.
- a system for fabricating a plurality of unique parts.
- the system comprises a plurality of unique lay-up tools respectively corresponding to the plurality of parts to be fabricated and, a plurality of former modules configured to be combined together to define a plurality of unique formers respectively corresponding to the plurality of parts and the plurality of lay-up tools.
- Each of the formers is adapted for laying down material on a corresponding one of the lay-up tools to form a corresponding one of the parts.
- the former modules are substantially identical, and each of the plurality of unique formers is configured by coupling each of the substantially identical former modules to the corresponding unique lay-up tool.
- the former modules are linked together and are mounted on bases allowing the former modules to move in multiple directions.
- Each of the former modules includes a forming head adapted to form the material on a corresponding one of the lay-up tools.
- Each of the forming heads includes compliance.
- the part may be a laminated structure, and the laminated structure may be a carbon fiber
- apparatus for fabricating each of a plurality of differing laminate structures in a family of structures having common features.
- the apparatus comprises a plurality of separate fabrication modules each locally adapted to fabricate a section of the laminate structure on a corresponding tool.
- the fabrication modules are reconfigurable to fabricate each of the laminate structures in the family thereof.
- the apparatus also includes a controller for controlling and coordinating automated operation of the fabrication modules.
- the apparatus may further comprise a forming member adapted for forming laminate plies over the tool.
- the forming member extends along a length of the fabrication modules, and is mounted on each of the fabrication modules for movement over the tool along at least two axes.
- the forming member is continuous along the length of the fabrication modules.
- the forming member is controlled along two axes, but has a shape that adapts to changes between different areas of the structure being formed, such as, in the case of a one-piece aircraft fuselage frame, between an inner chord radius and a shear tie radius of the frame.
- Each of the fabrication modules includes a track in which a portion of the forming member is locally mounted.
- a single forming member may be used to fabricate a particular structure, however the forming member is removably mounted in the track to allow interchangeability of a plurality of forming members respectively having different shapes to fabricate differently shaped structures.
- the track allows for lateral (or tangential) slip of the forming member relative to each module as the arc length of the structure changes as the forming member moves over the structure.
- the forming member is adapted to sweep laminate plies over the tool, and includes compliance.
- Each of the fabrication modules includes a clamp adapted for clamping a portion of a laminate ply against a portion of the tool.
- Each of the fabrication modules includes a powered drive coupled with the forming member for sweeping the forming member over the laminate plies and compacting laminate plies on the tool.
- the apparatus may further comprise a flexible ply carrier adapted to hold at least one laminate ply thereon, wherein each of the fabrication modules includes a pair of spaced apart tracks adapted to releasably hold the ply carrier, and a ply carrier control assembly for holding the ply carrier in tension as the forming member forms the ply over the tool.
- the forming member is engageable with the ply carrier to sweep the ply carrier along with the ply thereon over the tool, and the ply carrier control assembly includes drives for adjusting the position ply carrier along two axes.
- Each of the fabrication modules further includes a force sensor for sensing a level of force applied to the laminate plies by the forming member, and a position sensor for sensing the position of the forming member.
- Each of the fabrication modules further includes a clamp for clamping the fabrication module to the tool.
- the apparatus may also comprise linkage between the fabrication modules for coupling the fabrication modules together and for aligning the fabrication modules relative to the tool. The linkage is configured to allow the forming modules to rotate along an arc that is substantially the same as the retracted arc of the continuously extending forming member.
- the fabrication modules are substantially identical and interchangeable with each other.
- the apparatus also includes a central controller for controlling and coordinating the operation of the fabrication modules to collectively fabricate the laminate structure.
- a method is provided of fabricating a plurality of differing parts in a family of parts having common features, wherein each of the parts is fabricated using a unique tool.
- the method comprises arranging a plurality of separate, substantially identical fabrication modules to substantially match a tool on which one of the parts is to be fabricated, and adapting each of the fabrication modules to a local section of the tool.
- the method further comprises controlling and coordinating operation of the fabrication modules to fabricate portions of the part over a corresponding section of the tool.
- Arranging the fabrication modules includes moving each of the fabrication modules into proximity to the tool, and linking the fabrication modules together.
- the method may further comprise clamping each of the fabrication modules to the tool.
- Adapting each of the fabrication modules includes learning, by each of the fabrication modules, the location of surfaces on the tool on which the part is to be fabricated.
- the method may also comprise sweeping materials across the surfaces of the tool using a forming member, and using the forming member to learn the location of the surfaces on the tool. Learning the location of the surfaces includes sensing the position of the forming member as the forming member sweeps materials across the surfaces of the tool, and recording the sensed position of the forming member.
- Adapting each of the fabrication modules includes adjusting the elevation of the fabrication modules to a common waterline.
- the method may further comprise forming a continuous spline along all of the fabrication modules. Forming the continuous spline includes mounting a continuous forming member along substantially the entire length of the fabrication modules.
- Each of the fabrication modules may be a laminate ply former module for forming a local section of a ply.
- Arranging the fabrication modules includes linking the fabrication modules together to form a single laminate ply former.
- a method of fabricating a composite laminate structure.
- the method comprises arranging a plurality of substantially identical forming modules to generally match a tool on which composite plies are to be formed to fabricate the laminate structure, and linking the forming modules together to form a single former for forming an entire composite laminate structure.
- the method further comprises mounting a continuous forming member on the forming modules, the continuous forming member defining a spline extending substantially the entire length of the former, and using the forming member to form and compact the composite plies on the tool.
- the method may also include placing the composite plies on a ply carrier. The forming member is used to engage and sweep the ply carrier along with the plies over the tool.
- a forming module for forming a composite laminate part over a tool.
- the forming module comprises a base and a ply carrier control assembly adapted for controlling the position of a flexible ply carrier on which composite resin plies are mounted.
- the forming module further comprises a head section mounted on the base and adapted for automatically forming the composite resin plies from the ply carrier onto the tool.
- the base is adapted to move over a supporting surface, and the head section includes adaptive control for learning a profile of the tool.
- the forming module may further include a clamp for clamping the head section to the tool, and an automatically controlled forming member for forming the plies over the tool.
- FIG. 1 is an illustration of a block diagram of a system for fabricating any of a plurality of parts within a family having common features using corresponding tools and fabrication modules according to the disclosed embodiments.
- FIG. 2 is an illustration of a diagrammatic plan view of apparatus for fabricating contoured composite laminate structures.
- FIG. 3 is an illustration of a perspective view of a composite laminate frame section having a Z-shaped cross-section.
- FIG. 4 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the frame section shown in FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 5 is an illustration of an end view of a tool having the frame section shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 laid up and compacted thereon.
- FIG. 6 is an illustration of a functional block diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 2 , shown clamped to the tool illustrated in FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 7 is an illustration of a perspective view of the apparatus, prior to being moved into proximity to and clamped to a tool, a ply carrier not shown for clarity.
- FIG. 8 is an illustration of a front perspective view of three adjacent fabrication modules forming part of the apparatus shown in FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 9 is an illustration of a front perspective view of one of the fabrication modules shown in FIG. 8 , depicting additional details of the module.
- FIG. 10 is an illustration of a plan view of a ply carrier having a ply mounted thereon.
- FIG. 11 is an illustration of a front view of a nosepiece track forming part of each of the fabrication modules shown in FIGS. 7-9 .
- FIG. 12 is an illustration of a perspective view of a portion of the length of a nosepiece adapted to be mounted on the nosepiece track shown in FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 13 is an illustration of a flow diagram of a method of fabricating each of a plurality of different parts in a family of parts having common features.
- FIG. 14 is an illustration of a flow diagram of a method of fabricating a composite laminate structure.
- FIG. 15 is an illustration of a flow diagram of the method used to set up and teach each of the fabrication modules.
- FIG. 16 is an end view of the tool shown in FIG. 5 , illustrating the progressive movement of the nosepiece during the set up and teaching phase shown in FIG. 15 .
- FIG. 17 is illustration of a flow diagram of an adaptive control method employed by each of the fabrication modules
- FIG. 18 is an illustration of a flow diagram of aircraft production and service methodology.
- FIG. 19 is illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft.
- a system 38 is provided for fabricating any of a plurality of unique parts 54 within a family 56 of parts 54 having common features or characteristics.
- the unique parts 54 may be fabricated using corresponding, unique tools 48 , which may be layup tools, and a combination 43 of fabrication modules 42 , sometimes hereinafter also referred to as former modules 42 or forming modules 42 , arranged and configured to form a fabricator 40 , sometimes hereinafter also referred to as a former 40 .
- the fabrication modules 42 may be identical and interchangeable. The number and arrangement of the fabrication modules 42 is matched to the particular tool 48 required to fabricate a particular part 54 .
- the fabricator 40 fabricates the part 54 by placing and forming material 46 on the particular tool 48 .
- Forming material 46 may sometimes hereinafter also be referred to as composite plies 46 , pre-preg plies 46 , or plies 46 .
- the part 54 may be a multi-ply composite laminate, and the material 46 may be a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP).
- CFRP carbon fiber reinforced plastic
- Part 54 may sometimes hereinafter also referred to as composite laminate 54 , composite laminate structure 54 , or structure 54 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of the system 38 shown in FIG. 1 .
- a plurality of former modules 42 are arranged in a configuration generally matching the shape of a layup tool 48 on which a particular part (not shown in FIG. 2 ) is to be formed.
- the former modules 42 are arranged in an arc shape that substantially matches the arc shaped layup tool 48 , however, a variety of other shapes are possible.
- the former 40 forms and laminates composite plies 46 on the tool 48 .
- the former modules 42 are rigidly connected with each other by linkage 44 to form a former 40 .
- the former 40 self-adapts and aligns itself to each particular tool 48 required to make a particular part 54 ( FIG. 1 ).
- the former modules 42 may be substantially identical to each other and are thus interchangeable 50 with modules 42 a purposes of repair, replacement or reconfiguration of the former 40 to form unique parts within a family of parts having common features or characteristics.
- Each of the former modules 42 is coupled with a central controller 52 which may comprise a special or general purpose computer, or a PLC (programmable logic controller).
- the central controller 52 controls and coordinates the automated operation of the former modules 42 .
- the former 40 may be used to form a variety of composite parts within a family of parts having common features or characteristics.
- the former 40 may be used to form and laminate a composite frame section 58 used in an aircraft fuselage (not shown).
- the frame section 58 is curved or contoured along its length and has a radius “R”.
- the former 40 may be used to form any of a range of frame sections 58 having different arc lengths, radii or other common features within a family of frame sections 58 . These features, including contours or radii, may be continuous or non-continuous along the length of the frame section 58 or other parts being formed.
- the frame section 58 is generally Z-shaped in cross section, and comprises an inner chord flange 62 and an outer chord flange 64 (sometimes also referred to as a shear tie 64 ).
- the inner and outer chord flanges 62 , 64 respectively are connected by a central web 60 .
- the shear tie 64 is connected to the web 60 by a shear tie radius 68
- the inner chord flange 62 is connected to the web 60 by an inner chord radius 70 .
- a Z-shaped frame section 58 has been illustrated in the exemplary embodiment, it should be noted that the disclosed method and apparatus may be employed to fabricate composite laminate parts having a variety of other cross-sectional shapes, including but not limited to L, I and C cross-sectional shapes.
- the former 40 forms and laminates composite pre-preg plies 46 on a tool 48 .
- the tool 48 has tool features matching the frame section 58 .
- the tool 48 includes an inner chord tool flange 72 , an inner chord tool radius 74 , a web tool surface 76 , shear tie tool radius 78 and an outer chord tool flange 80 .
- the tool 48 also includes a clamping flange 82 extending around its entire inner chord.
- Other types of layup tools 48 may be used in connection with the disclosed method and apparatus to form other types and sizes composite laminate parts, having cross-sectional shapes other than Z cross-sections.
- the illustrated tool 48 may be employed to layup a curved composite laminate frame section or other part having an L-shaped cross-section.
- FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing one of the former modules 42 , in the process of laying up a single pre-preg ply 46 on the tool 48 .
- the ply 46 is supported in a desired, or indexed position on a ply carrier 84 discussed below in more detail.
- the ply carrier 84 is held along its upper edge on a carrier support track 120 at the end of a support arm 95 forming part of the former module 42 .
- the former module 42 broadly comprises a ply carrier control assembly 86 mounted on a head section 92 which is supported on a movable base 106 .
- the base 106 may include an on-board controller 110 that is coupled with the central controller 52 ( FIG. 2 ) previously discussed. Wheels or casters 112 on the base 106 allow the former module 42 to be moved along a supporting surface such as a factory floor (not shown) in any direction in order to allow the former module 42 to be positioned in a desired configuration with other former modules 42 , such that the collective geometry of the former modules 42 substantially matches that of the tool 48 .
- the base 106 includes a Z-axis slide assembly 108 which moves the head section 92 and the ply carrier control assembly 86 in the vertical direction, or Z-axis within a machine coordinate system 124 .
- the ply carrier control assembly 86 controls the attitude of, and tension on the ply carrier 84 in order to support and continuously reposition position the ply 46 as it is being formed onto the tool 48 .
- the ply carrier control assembly 86 may include a motorized drive system which moves the support arm 95 and thus the carrier support track 120 along both the Y and Z axes.
- the motorized drive system may comprise a servo-motor 88 for driving the carrier support track 120 along the Y axis, and an air cylinder 90 for driving the support arm 95 and the carrier support track 120 along the Z axis.
- Other drive arrangements are possible.
- the head section 92 includes a ply forming member 116 , referred to hereinafter as a nosepiece 116 , which engages the ply carrier 84 and follows the shape of the tool 48 to form and compact the ply 46 onto the tool 48 .
- the nosepiece 116 is removably mounted in a nosepiece track 118 discussed later in more detail.
- the nosepiece 116 extends continuously along the entire arc length of the tool 48 , and effectively forms a spline between the forming modules 42 .
- Both the nosepiece 116 and the nosepiece track 118 may be flexible along their length to conform to the curvature and other features of the tool 48 .
- the nosepiece track 118 is coupled with a motorized drive system which may comprise, for example and without limitation, a plurality of air cylinders 102 which move the nosepiece 116 in the Y direction.
- Movement of the nosepiece 116 in the Z direction may be effected through movement of the head section 92 by the Z-axis slide assembly 108 on the base 106 .
- the head section 92 further includes an inner chord clamp 122 driven in the Y direction by air cylinders 104 or similar motor drives.
- the inner chord clamp 122 clamps the lower edge of the ply carrier 84 and the ply 46 against the inner chord tool flange 72 ( FIG. 5 ) while the ply 46 is being formed over other surfaces of the tool 48 .
- the head section 92 may include a datum locator which may comprise, for example and without limitation, a proximity sensor, as well as servo-motors 94 and encoders 96 .
- the servo-motors 94 and the encoders 96 may be used to determine the position of the nosepiece 116 , and thus the location of surfaces on the tool 48 , during an adaptive tool learning process discussed below.
- One or more load cells 100 on the head section 92 may be used to sense the amount of force being applied by the nosepiece 116 during both the learning and ply forming processes.
- the former 40 provides 2-axis (Y-Z) controlled sweeping of pre-preg plies with 2-axis coordinated motion.
- motion is not limited to 2 axes.
- the required motion may be accomplished using multiple robots (not shown) operating in unison.
- the adaptive control employed by former 40 allows the former modules 42 to adapt to each particular tool 48 used to make any of a number of parts within a family of parts, by using a generic profile of the parts in the family, and force feedback to learn and follow the specific tool and part geometry.
- the adaptive control used by the former 40 also automatically adapts or adjusts to the shape of the part 54 as the thickness of the part 54 increases with layup of each successive ply 46 .
- the use of a combination of position control and motor torque feedback allow constant pressure to be applied by the nosepiece 116 to the part 54 during the forming process.
- the tool 48 may be supported on a wheeled cart 126 for movement into proximity with a former 40 comprising a plurality of former modules 42 that have been configured to substantially match the geometry of the tool 48 .
- the former modules 42 are rigidly connected together by mechanical linkages 44 (see FIG. 8 ) between bases 106 of adjacent former modules 42 .
- the ply carrier control assembly 86 ( FIG. 6 ) includes a Z-axis slide support allowing movement of the support arm 95 (see FIGS. 6-8 ) along the Z axis, and a slide 130 providing movement of the support arm 95 along the Y-axis.
- Tool clamps 114 driven by air cylinders 136 function to clamp the flange 82 ( FIG.
- the tool 48 does not have to be located on a precise platform, and the forming process can be carried out on standard factory floors that may be uneven.
- the tool 48 and/or the plies 46 may be heated during a layup process in order to soften the resin and facilitate forming. Heating may be achieved using any suitable technique, including but not limited to infrared radiation using IR heat lamps.
- the ply carrier 84 may be formed of a flexible, durable material that may be stretchable in one or more directions, for example along its width “W”.
- One or more plies 46 may be placed in preselected, indexed positions on the ply carrier 84 prior to the ply carrier 84 being loaded onto the former 40 .
- the ply carrier 84 may include upper and lower carrier guides 140 , 142 that are used to removably mount the ply carrier on the former 40 .
- the upper carrier guide 140 may include individual guide members (not shown) on the back of the ply carrier 84 which are received within a groove (not shown) in the carrier support track 120 .
- the lower carrier guide 142 may comprise a continuous guide strip (not shown) on the back of the ply carrier 84 which is received within a groove (not shown) extending along the inner chord clamp 122 .
- FIG. 11 illustrates further details of one embodiment of the nosepiece track 118 .
- the nosepiece track 118 comprises a plurality of spaced apart segments 144 which allow the nosepiece track 118 to flex as required to permit the nosepiece 116 to conform to features of the tool 48 .
- the nosepiece 116 includes an outer forming tip 146 that has a profile suited for the particular application and features of the tool 48 .
- the nosepiece 116 is mounted on the nosepiece track 118 by a T-shaped guide 148 that is slidably received within a groove 145 in the nosepiece track 120 .
- the nosepiece 116 may be removably installed in the nosepiece track 120 by sliding it lengthwise through the groove 145 .
- nosepieces 116 having different sizes and shapes are interchangeable, allowing selection of a nosepiece 116 that is suitable for the application and tool shape.
- the nosepiece 116 may be compliant in order to better conform it to features of the tool 48 during the forming process.
- FIG. 13 broadly illustrates the steps of a method of fabricating each of the plurality of differing parts 54 in a family 56 of parts 54 having common features, wherein each of the parts 54 is fabricated using a unique tool 48 .
- identical fabrication modules 42 are arranged to match a tool 48 in which the part 54 to be fabricated.
- each of the fabrication modules 42 is adapted to a local section of the tool 48 .
- operation of the fabrication modules 42 is controlled and coordinated to fabricate portions of the part 54 over a corresponding section of the tool 48 .
- FIG. 14 broadly illustrates the steps of a method of fabricating a composite laminate structure 54 .
- a plurality of forming modules 42 are arranged to match a tool 48 on which the structure 54 is to be formed.
- the modules 42 are linked together to form a single former 40 for forming the entire composite laminate structure 54 .
- a continuous forming member 116 is mounted on the forming modules 42 .
- the forming member 116 defines a spline extending substantially the entire length of the former 40 .
- the forming member 116 is used to form and compact composite plies 46 on the tool 48 .
- FIG. 15 broadly illustrates the steps that may be carried out to set up and teach each of the forming modules 42 in preparation for a forming process using a particular tool 48 .
- former 40 is set up by arranging and linking former modules 42 together using linkages 44 , and initializing settings of each of the modules 42 .
- the linked former modules 42 are moved to engage and lock onto the tool 48 .
- the tool clamps 114 FIG. 9 ) clamp the flange 82 ( FIG. 5 ) of the tool 48 against the tool waterline index plate 132 .
- the former modules 42 are aligned to match the curvature of the tool 48 , and the linkage 44 maintains the shape and alignment of the former modules 42 .
- the former module 42 is taught the position of the inner chord clamp relative to the tool 48 , and at 174 the position of the nosepiece relative to the tool 48 is learned.
- the servo-motors 94 ( FIG. 6 ) and the encoders 96 are used to initially learn the shape of the tool, and then to relearn the surface of the laminated plies 46 as each of the plies 46 is laid up.
- FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate additional details of the disclosed forming method.
- the tool 48 is moved into proximity to the former 40 , and at 180 , the tool 48 is clamped to the former 40 .
- one or more plies 46 are mounted on the ply carrier 84 .
- the ply carrier 84 having the ply 46 mounted thereon is loaded onto the former 40 . This loading process is performed by inserting the lower carrier guide 142 into the former 40 at 186 , and at step 188 , inserting the upper guide 140 into the upper guide rail track, such as carrier support track 120 , on the former 40 .
- the position of the nosepiece 116 along the Y-axis is determined by driving the nosepiece 116 forward along the Y-axis into contact with the inner chord tool flange 72 using a predetermined motor torque.
- An encoder 96 coupled with the servo-motor 94 is read to indicate the position of the nosepiece 116 .
- the nosepiece 116 is pressed against the inner chord flange with a predetermined amount of force.
- the nosepiece 116 is moved upwardly along the Z-axis at a predetermined rate. The ply 46 is swept and compacted against the surface of inner chord tool flange 72 , at step 194 .
- the transition of the nosepiece 116 from the inner chord tool flange 72 to the web tool surface 76 is sensed by monitoring a Y-axis encoder 96 for a change.
- control of the nosepiece 116 along the Y-axis is switched from a torque mode to a position mode, and along the Z-axis from a position mode to a torque mode.
- the nosepiece 116 maintains compaction pressure against the ply 46 during the transition over the inside corner of the inner chord tool radius 74 .
- the nosepiece 116 sweeps and compacts the ply against the web tool surface 76 on the tool 48 .
- movement of the nosepiece 116 is terminated when the nosepiece 116 is a short distance from the shear tie radius 78 .
- the nosepiece 116 is used to “discover” the shape of the shear tie radius 78 . This is accomplished by advancing the nosepiece 116 along the Y-axis until a preselected torque limit is reached.
- control of the nosepiece 116 is switched to the torque mode along the Y-axis and along the Z-axis.
- the nosepiece 116 sweeps and compacts apply against the shear tie tool surface 80 .
- the nosepiece 116 applies force along the Y-axis in the torque mode, while being driven upwardly along the Z-axis in the position mode.
- the ply forming process is complete and steps 182 - 208 may be repeated to layup, form and compact additional plies.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may find use in a variety of potential applications, particularly in the transportation industry, including for example, aerospace, marine, automotive applications and other application requiring automated fabrication of a variety of parts within a family of parts having common features or characteristics.
- embodiments of the disclosure may be used in the context of an aircraft manufacturing and service method 212 as shown in FIG. 18 and an aircraft 214 as shown in FIG. 19 .
- Aircraft applications of the disclosed embodiments may include, for example, without limitation, fuselage frame sections, spars, stringers and other structural members, to name only a few.
- exemplary method 212 may include specification and design 216 of the aircraft 214 and material procurement 218 .
- component and subassembly manufacturing 220 and system integration 222 of the aircraft 214 takes place. Thereafter, the aircraft 214 may go through certification and delivery 224 in order to be placed in service 226 . While in service by a customer, the aircraft 214 is scheduled for routine maintenance and service 228 , which may also include modification, reconfiguration, refurbishment, and so on.
- Each of the processes of method 212 may be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, and/or an operator (e.g., a customer).
- a system integrator may include without limitation any number of aircraft manufacturers and major-system subcontractors
- a third party may include without limitation any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers
- an operator may be an airline, leasing company, military entity, service organization, and so on.
- the aircraft 214 produced by exemplary method 212 may include an airframe 230 with a plurality of systems 232 and an interior 234 .
- high-level systems 232 include one or more of a propulsion system 236 , an electrical system 238 , a hydraulic system 240 , and an environmental system 242 . Any number of other systems may be included.
- an aerospace example is shown, the principles of the disclosure may be applied to other industries, such as the marine and automotive industries.
- Systems and methods embodied herein may be employed during any one or more of the stages of the production and service method 212 .
- components or subassemblies corresponding to production process 220 may be fabricated or manufactured in a manner similar to components or subassemblies produced while the aircraft 214 is in service.
- one or more apparatus embodiments, method embodiments, or a combination thereof may be utilized during the production stages 220 and 222 , for example, by substantially expediting assembly of or reducing the cost of an aircraft 214 .
- apparatus embodiments, method embodiments, or a combination thereof may be utilized while the aircraft 242 is in service, for example and without limitation, to maintenance and service 228 .
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- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Composite Materials (AREA)
- Robotics (AREA)
- Moulding By Coating Moulds (AREA)
- Mounting, Exchange, And Manufacturing Of Dies (AREA)
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BR112015016158-8A BR112015016158B1 (pt) | 2013-01-07 | 2013-11-21 | aparelho para fabricar cada estrutura laminada de uma pluralidade de estruturas laminadas diferentes numa família de estruturas com recursos comuns, e, método de fabricação de cada peça de uma pluralidade de peças diferentes numa família de peças com recursos comuns |
EP13808304.3A EP2941342B1 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2013-11-21 | Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures |
ES13808304T ES2834957T3 (es) | 2013-01-07 | 2013-11-21 | Método y aparato para fabricar estructuras laminadas contornadas |
PCT/US2013/071124 WO2014107243A1 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2013-11-21 | Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures |
CA2897045A CA2897045C (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2013-11-21 | Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures |
CN201380069656.2A CN104903080B (zh) | 2013-01-07 | 2013-11-21 | 用于制造波形层压结构的方法和装置 |
JP2015551676A JP6357486B2 (ja) | 2013-01-07 | 2013-11-21 | 輪郭に合致した積層構造体を製作するための方法及び装置 |
EP20187453.4A EP3750694B1 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2013-11-21 | Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures |
US14/525,500 US10828846B2 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2014-10-28 | Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures |
US15/089,399 US10464265B2 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2016-04-01 | Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures |
US16/599,341 US11534989B2 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2019-10-11 | Method and apparatus for fabricating contoured laminate structures |
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CA2897045A1 (en) | 2014-07-10 |
US20140190625A1 (en) | 2014-07-10 |
BR112015016158A2 (pt) | 2017-07-11 |
CA2897045C (en) | 2017-08-29 |
JP6357486B2 (ja) | 2018-07-11 |
US11534989B2 (en) | 2022-12-27 |
US20160214330A1 (en) | 2016-07-28 |
CN104903080A (zh) | 2015-09-09 |
US10464265B2 (en) | 2019-11-05 |
BR112015016158A8 (pt) | 2019-10-22 |
JP2016508900A (ja) | 2016-03-24 |
ES2834957T3 (es) | 2021-06-21 |
WO2014107243A1 (en) | 2014-07-10 |
BR112015016158B1 (pt) | 2021-04-20 |
EP3750694A1 (en) | 2020-12-16 |
EP2941342B1 (en) | 2020-09-09 |
EP3750694B1 (en) | 2023-06-21 |
US20200039154A1 (en) | 2020-02-06 |
CN104903080B (zh) | 2018-09-07 |
EP2941342A1 (en) | 2015-11-11 |
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